Planning an epic journey that includes both a volcano trekking adventure and a Komodo Liveaboard experience? With the recent activity at Mount Lewotobi in East Flores and the ever-popular Komodo National Park drawing travellers year-round, combining land and sea adventures in this region has become increasingly appealing. But packing for two drastically different environments—mountain trails and sun-drenched boat decks—requires strategic planning.
This guide will help you pack smart, stay safe, and make the most of every moment of your adventure.
1. Essential Travel Documents & Basics
Before focusing on gear, don’t forget the essentials:
- Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Travel Insurance (ensure it covers both trekking and marine activities)
- Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) – small island ATMs are often unreliable
- Offline Maps or a GPS app
- Printed itinerary and emergency contacts
2. Clothing for Volcano Trekking
Trekking up volcanoes like Mount Lewotobi requires light, breathable, and protective clothing suitable for both hot daytime hikes and cooler mountain nights.
What to pack:
- Lightweight hiking pants and moisture-wicking shirts
- Windproof jacket or light raincoat (weather changes fast in high altitudes)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Trekking shoes or trail runners with good grip
- Socks (preferably moisture-wicking or wool-blend)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Dust mask or N95 mask – useful if volcanic ash is in the air
3. What to Pack for Your Komodo Liveaboard
When transitioning from rugged mountain trails to the laid-back luxury of a Komodo boat tour, your gear needs to shift to comfort, water protection, and sun safety.
On-deck essentials:
- Lightweight cotton or linen clothes (loose-fitting shirts, shorts, dresses)
- Swimwear (pack 2–3 for quick rotation)
- Sarong or cover-up – doubles as a towel or sun shield
- Flip-flops or sandals for moving around the boat
- Light sweater or jacket for breezy evenings at sea
Gear for marine activities:
- Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins – though some tours provide them)
- Dry bag to keep electronics safe during island hopping
- Underwater camera or GoPro
- Reef-safe sunscreen (very important for marine conservation)
- Aqua shoes – ideal for beach landings and coral exploration
- Reusable water bottle (hydration is key under the sun)
4. Health & Hygiene Essentials
You’ll be far from pharmacies, especially when out at sea or trekking remote routes, so carry:
- First-aid kit (include motion sickness tablets, plasters, antiseptic)
- Personal medications (enough for your entire trip)
- Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
- Biodegradable soap or shampoo
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
5. Tech & Safety Equipment
- Power bank or solar charger (many boats and mountain lodges have limited outlets)
- Travel adapter (Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs)
- Binoculars – for bird watching and wildlife spotting
- Notebook or travel journal
6. Bonus Tips for Dual-Adventure Travel
- Layer smart: Your trekking gear can double as cool-weather evening wear on the boat.
- Avoid overpacking: Boats have limited space, and you’ll want to move freely.
- Laundry? Minimal. Expect to re-wear lightweight clothes. Prioritize quick-drying fabrics.
- Protect your lungs and skin: With the recent volcanic activity, wearing masks and long sleeves offers practical defence against ash and sun exposure.
Whether you’re chasing sunrise views from Mount Lewotobi or diving into the pristine waters off Padar Island, being well-prepared will ensure your journey is memorable for all the right reasons. This unique blend of fire and sea makes East Nusa Tenggara a dream destination—and packing smart is your ticket to exploring it with confidence. The Komodo Liveaboard experience awaits, but only those who are prepared truly thrive on this kind of adventure.
